Ten Scorpio bulkers to have MacRack equipped hatch covers

The MacRack electric-drive system lifts the side-rolling hatch cover panels up and moves them away from each other into the open position

JUNE 23, 2014 — Cargotec's MacGregor unit has won an order from Sungdong Shipyard in South Korea for side rolling hatch covers for ten 180,000 dwt bulk carriers The ships are being built for the New York listed Scorpio Bulkers Inc (NYSE: SALT). The majority of the ships will be delivered during 2015.

The hatch covers will have the MacRack electrically-operated opening and closing system.

Scorpio Bulkers has previously ordered other ships with the system.

MacRack uses variable frequency drive (VFD) technology that allows for the optimized use of electric power. The operating speed is slow at the start of the opening process, when power is needed to lift the panel. Rolling takes place at full speed and slows down again when the panel is close to the end stops.

The first MacRack units were contracted in 2013 and today there are 600 on order for a total of 24 ships and ten options.